Petrópolis

Tours

After pick up from Rio, relax on the 2-hour drive as you ascend into the hills towards Petrópolis, located 823 meters above sea level. Historic Petrópolis is famous for the period that Brazil was a monarchy, ruled by Dom Pedro II. Start the tour with a stop at the Casa do Alemão. Located at the entrance to the city, the diner is famous for German sausage and croquettes. Next, marvel at the gardens outside the Quitandinha Palace. Continue the tour at the Imperial Palace. Explore the interior of the palace, and see the original furniture, paintings, clothes, and jewelry used by the Royal Family in their former summer house. Next, revel at the neo-gothic architecture of the Cathedral of Saint Peter of Alcantara. Take photos at the Crystal Palace, once used as the princess’s private garden. After this, take a break and enjoy lunch at a buffet restaurant (if option selected). Otherwise, use your free time to wander. See the Santos-Dumont House, the former home of the famous Brazilian inventor and aviator, from the outside. Finally, visit the Bohemia Brewery (if option selected) and learn the techniques of beer making in the region. Stop at the Casa de Chocolate Katz before returning to Rio de Janeiro. In high season, tours can take longer due to traffic and the large volume of people in the city.

Discover the wonders of Petrópolis on a full-day tour that promises to enchant you with the rich history and architectural beauty of this imperial city. Our journey begins with a convenient early pick-up directly from your hotel in Rio de Janeiro. The trip to Petrópolis takes approximately two hours, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy the stunning landscape of the state's interior. On the way, we will make a strategic stop at the famous Casa do Alemão. This establishment is a traditional delicatessen known for its European-inspired snacks. Here, you can stretch your legs, use the restroom, and enjoy a delicious snack before we continue our journey. Casa do Alemão is a true icon of the region, offering a variety of treats that will certainly please your palate. Upon arriving in Petrópolis, our first stop is the majestic Quitandinha. This historic site was originally built as a luxurious casino, where Rio de Janeiro's high society used to gather for glamorous events. Today, Quitandinha serves as a venue for exclusive private parties, but its grand architecture and lush gardens still reflect the opulence of its glory days. You will have the opportunity to take impressive photos and admire the elegance of this historic landmark. Our exploration of the city continues with a visit to the renowned Imperial Museum. Petrópolis, known as the "Imperial City," was the summer refuge of the Brazilian Imperial Family, and the museum houses a cultural collection of enormous importance to Brazil. At the Imperial Museum, you can see up close the furniture, works of art, clothing, jewelry, and other personal items that belonged to the Imperial Family. This visit offers a fascinating journey into the past, allowing you to better understand the country's history and cultural heritage. After visiting the museum, we will head to the stunning Crystal Palace. This glass and iron building, constructed in the 19th century, was used for plant exhibitions and social events. Today, the Crystal Palace remains one of the most iconic tourist spots in Petrópolis, offering a dazzling view both during the day and at night when it is magically illuminated. Our next stop is the imposing Cathedral of Saint Peter of Alcantara, a remarkable example of Gothic architecture in Brazil. This cathedral is the final resting place of many members of the Imperial Family, including Dom Pedro II. The architectural beauty and reverent atmosphere of the cathedral make it a must-visit place for tourists. We continue our journey with a visit to the house of Santos Dumont, the father of Brazilian aviation. Although entry is not included in the tour, you will have the opportunity to admire the ingenuity and simplicity of the residence of this famous inventor. Next, we visit the charming clock in the Garden of Flowers.

In the past, Petrópolis was the place where the Brazilian imperial family, as well as many other important people from high society, used to spend their summer vacations. Nowadays, people come from all over the world to see the well-preserved villas and palaces where they stayed.   Your tour begins with pick-up from your accommodation between 8:00 and 9:00 AM. You’ll then take the approximately 1-hour drive to Petrópolis on a comfortable air-conditioned bus. On the way, you’ll catch beautiful views of the mountains and the green spaces of the National Park of Serra dos Orgãos. Once at the city, start your visit with Quitandinha Palace, which used to be the biggest casino hotel in Latin America. Take some pictures at the palace, and then continue with a tour of the Imperial Museum, once the summer house of Emperor Pedro II. There, you’ll be able to see many important artifacts from the imperial family, such as jewels and the Emperor’s diamond crown. Your guide will teach you about the history of the Brazilian Empire and about the everyday life of the imperial family.     After a break for lunch, you’ll visit São Pedro de Alcântara Cathedral, a marvelous Gothic building which is the mausoleum of the imperial family. Afterward, explore the city and see its German-engineered architecture. Stop in at the Crystal Palace, an erstwhile events venue for the imperial family. Finally, you’ll visit the Flowers Watch and see the Santos Dumont house. Arrive back in Rio at approximately 7:00 PM. Upgrade your tour to include a visit to a beer factory which makes the oldest beer in Brazil. Learn about the history of beer during a 1-hour tour with tastings included.

Our services are completely private and personalized to meet the specific needs of our clients. Our fleet has new, clean vehicles, equipped with air conditioning and Wi-Fi. In addition, we provide free car seats for children, ensuring the safety of little ones during the trip. All of our drivers are qualified professionals and committed to the comfort and safety of passengers. We always prioritize the satisfaction of our customers, ensuring a smooth and comfortable travel experience. Travel in comfort and safety! Schedule your private transport with a time and location defined by you. You can always travel punctually and worry-free. MANDATORY STOP IN THE LAGOS REGION A mandatory stop is established at the Graal service station for drivers and customers. The Graal station is considered the only safe and suitable place for drivers and customers to take a break during the journey. The mandatory stop at the Grail will last 20 to 30 minutes. MANDATORY STOP COSTA VERDE A mandatory stop is established at the BR Mangaratiba gas station for drivers and customers. The station is considered the only safe and suitable place for drivers and customers to take a break during their journey. The mandatory stop at the station will last 20 to 30 minutes.

The tour of Petrópolis Imperial will make your trip to the region worthwhile. It takes 9 hours to visit several of the historical sites we mentioned, such as Quitandinha, Palácio de Cristal and Santos Dumont's house. The package includes transportation (round trip), entry to the Imperial Museum, a bilingual guide and a free lunch. When thinking about what to do in Petrópolis, just remember that it is a city planned during the Empire era with historical tourist attractions that represent a large part of what our country once was. It is ideal for connecting to an ancient Brazil and better understanding what the lives of these people were like in the 19th century. In other words, it is a trip full of learning and knowledge, as well as a lot of cultural enrichment.

Escape to Petropolis: Rio's Hidden Gem Just an Hour Away! Discover the Majesty Loved area by King Pedro II, and Pedro I, with Tranquil Colonial Charm, Breathtaking enchanting aquarium along the way, and Delectable Cuisine. Join us, Exploring The Imperial City - Book Your Trip Now for a Serene Day Away from the Hustle and Bustle! We will see the Quitandinha Palace, amazing and imponent construction. Imperial Museum and how humble was the king of Brazil. The Cathedral Sao Pedro de Alcantara. The house of 7 errors where we can have a delicious lunch after if you feel like. At the afternoon we have the option of the Bohemian visit, the first brewery of Brazil or walk around the beautiful houses around the Imperial Palace. Also, you can see the Cristal Palace, the greenhouse from Princess Isabel. If sounds good choose the best day and time for you.

Begin the experience in Rio de Janeiro with hotel pickup, followed by an expedition briefing. Discover the wonderful mountainous region surrounding Rio on a three-day, 32-kilometer trek with an overnight camping experience.  Day 1: Rio de Janeiro City - Petrópolis Headquarters - Açu Castles Camp (8 kilometers) After meeting the Guide at the entrance to the Park, where you will start your trekking journey in the Serra dos Órgãos Mountains. The first day of Petrópolis Teresópolis crossing is the most demanding. During the 7-kilometer ascent to Castelos do Açu mountain shelter, you’ll gain approximately 1,100 meters of altitude.  The trail to Açu Mountain passes through a dense forest with a strong ascent to Pedra do Queijo viewpoint. Then the trail gets a little less steep until arriving at Ajax viewpoint, which has a natural water supply. After Ajax, face the section considered the most difficult of the ascent to the Açu castles: the Isabeloca Mountain.  This ascent is named after an alleged passage of Princess Isabel at the location. The view from the top of the Açu castles provides a magical conclusion to the first day. From there it is possible to see all Rio de Janeiro and Guanabara Bay, in addition to the entire mountain range of Serra dos Órgãos an Tijucas Forest. Day 2: Açu Castles Camp - Pedra do Sino Camp (10 kilometers) The second day is undoubtedly the most beautiful of the Petrópolis Teresópolis trekking experience. The entire course ascends an altitude of 2,000 meters. After leaving the Açu castles, cross a valley and then climb to the top of Morro do Marco. After descending this hill, arrive in Luva valley and then ascend to the summit of Morro da Luva.  The trail follows another section of rock summits, where navigation is complicated until reaching the section called The Elevator. The Elevator is a ladder made of steel rebar stuck to a steep stone that gives access to the summit of Morro do Dinossauro. Once at the top of Morro do Dinossauro, get the first great view of the Pedra do Garrafão and Pedra do Sino stones.  From there, start the descent to Vale das Antas as the trail continues to the summit of Morro da Baleia, where you can see the rock wall of Pedra do Sino, Garrafão and the trail channel where The 'Cavalinho' passage is located. At Pedra do Sino, Serra dos Órgãos summit, there is an incredible 360-degree view over several mountain ranges of the region and Rio de Janeiro city. Day 3: Pedra do Sino Camp - Teresópolis Headquarters - Rio de Janeiro City drop-off (12 kilometers) The third day is the least demanding of the trekking. The trail runs for about 9 kilometers to the end of the trek. During the descent, cross two waterfalls where the highlight is the 16-meter-high Véu da Noiva of Teresopolis, which is dry at certain times of the year. Then, discover the beauty and charm of Teresópolis Park.

Visit the legendary Petrópolis, home to Brazilian emperors and aristocrats, only 1 hour north of Rio de Janeiro! The tour begins with a visit to the Imperial Museum, once the summer home to Emperor Don Pedro II, the final ruler of the Empire of Brazil. Learn about his family's way of life and see the gold crown, pearls, and diamonds that belonged to Emporer Don Pedro I and Emporer Don Pedro II. Next you'll see the Cathedral of Saint Peter of Alcântara, a beautiful neo-gothic cathedral and heritage site. See where Emporer Don Pedro II, his wife Teresa Cristina, Princess Isabel and her husband Prince Gaston, the Count of Eu are buried. Complete your day with the Crystal Palace. With architecture inspired by Crystal Palace in London, the building is made of glass and metal and once used by Princess Isabel for parties. The Crystal Palace is also the location where Princess Isabel made a preliminary move to abolish slavery in Brazil by freeing slaves a few months before she signed it into law.

Visit rural Brazil on a day trip to Brejal, a 2-hour drive from Rio de Janeiro. See where most of Rio’s supplies come from and even taste the freshly picked goods. After your transfer from Rio, explore 5 farms and plantations in an open top 4x4. See where herbs, vegetables, fruit and flowers are cultivated from up close, and even have a chat with the people who work there. Also available for exploration are traditional bonsai cultivations, a beautiful stud farm with horses and equestrian champions, a charming chapel, and a warehouse with totally sustainable production. Lunch is also included using fresh, local ingredients. Added optional activities that can be paid for on the day include horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking. A beautiful waterfall and natural pool are also available for swimming.

After boarding the jeep in Rio de Janeiro, drive for 2 hours to reach Vale do Amor, located in the Petrópolis mountains. This sanctuary is a peaceful, scenic spot where you can enjoy looking out for different bird species.  Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour, with explanations about the history of the construction of the sanctuary. Learn how the gardens were designed and built based on themes around Mother Nature and the divine. Afterward, take advantage of some free time to meditate, practice yoga, or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings. Then, head to the waterfall, which features a deep pool where you can dive and enjoy swimming while surrounded by nature. Finally, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Rio.